Techno-entrepreneurship in Biotechnology: Introduction

Techno-entrepreneurship is a multidisciplinary and new field which is growing. In this paper, firstly the theories related to entrepreneurship and technology fields are reviewed, and then the techno-entrepreneurship is studied in detail. Also, a model for techno-entrepreneurship known as Pradon model is presented. This model comprises seven key elements including: technological entrepreneur, universities, corporations, capital, market/customers, government and finally advisors. Secondly, the entrepreneurship in the biotechnology as one case of techno-entrepreneurship is investigated. Bioentrepreneur is defined considering the characteristics of biotechnology. Opportunity assessment of biotechnology companies through the feasibility process (macro-level analysis), technology assessment (micro-level analysis) and finally the alternative commercialization options and pathways to their markets are stated, by using the related tools such as Spin-off companies, traditional out-licensing of technology, IP, trade sale and internal development. This article helps the researchers form the basis for future research and serves as a guide for governments and regions willing to develop and stimulate biotechnological entrepreneurship. At the end, after summing up the results, some suggestions in the related areas are presented.